You can trim costs at the hair salon

To be perfectly , I don’t enjoy getting my hair cut.

Even though it’s a necessity of life, I usually get stressed out by the process: making the appointment, blocking out time, worrying if my cut and style will look right, pulling out my debit card for the inevitable bill — it’s just not my favorite way to spend an afternoon.

Luckily, I’ve learned a few ways to cut corners and make the process a little more affordable, and therefore a little more enjoyable.

One positive thing about haircuts is that you truly can pay what you want for them.

Whether you are brazen enough to bring out the trimmers at home or prefer the full salon experience, there’s a price for every budget. Decide what your price-point is and start calling around.

Some salons have different levels of stylists who vary in price. It’s also possible to save by requesting a dry cut (skipping the shampoo). If you’re just looking for a basic trim and not a full cut and style, there could be a price difference, as well.

Most chain locations are significantly cheaper than full-service salons. In between those extremes you’ll find local barbershops and hairdressers that offer a variety of services for a mid-level price. Also, coupons for chain salons are common. They can be found on the backs of grocery receipts, online and in the newspaper.

It’s also possible to find deals for local businesses, though. Salons and beauty shops often offer daily deal vouchers or advertise monthly specials, frequently on their Facebook pages or websites. These deals are great ways to support local businesses, get pampered and save . Keeping an eye out for new salons offering grand opening or seasonal specials ( such as back-to-school) is another option.

Beauty institutes training students often provide affordable services to the public. In most cases, the students have reached a certain point in their education and are closely monitored by instructors while they work. Allowing students to practice on you helps them and can save you 50 percent or more off the cost of a professional salon service.

To get an idea of what’s offered locally, both the Regency Beauty Institute (www.regencybeauty.com) in Roanoke and P.Zaz the School (www.pzaztheschool.com) in Daleville have their services and price lists posted online. You can find other schools by using the Beauty Schools Directory at www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com.

Extending the time between cuts is an easy way to save money. If you have a short hairdo or color your hair, this can be a little more difficult, though.

At-home coloring has come a long way over the years and various brands now sell kits just for root touch-up, which is one way to stretch the time between salon visits. Some women do a daily check for split ends that need to be snipped. This upkeep can help hair look lively between cuts .

Alternating trips between your favorite salon and a more affordable barbershop or chain also is an option. Similarly, you can alternate at-home color with color done by a professional. Both of these options cut costs but still let you enjoy a special treat from time to time.

What’s your favorite tip for saving money on hair care? Join the conversation on the Shoptimist blog at blogs.roanoke.com/shoptimist.

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